Bihar Government Aims to Expand Sudha Dairy Exports Globally
In a significant move to enhance the economic prospects of dairy farmers, the Bihar government is actively working to broaden the international footprint of Sudha dairy products. Dairy, Fisheries, and Animal Resources Minister Surendra Mehta revealed on Friday that the state is targeting new markets in Southeast Asia and West Asia to increase overseas sales.
Current Export Achievements and Future Goals
Addressing a press conference at Soochna Bhawan in Patna, Minister Mehta highlighted that Sudha, the flagship brand of the Bihar State Milk Cooperative Federation Limited (COMFED), has already made strides in international trade. Last year, the brand successfully exported products to the United States and Canada, with specific shipments including 5.7 metric tonnes of ghee to the US and 5.0 metric tonnes of gulab jamun to Canada in March 2025. The inaugural export consignment was officially flagged off by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, marking a milestone for the state's dairy sector.
Looking ahead, the minister emphasized that efforts are now concentrated on penetrating markets in Gulf countries and Southeast Asia. This strategic expansion is expected to elevate demand for Sudha items such as curd, sweets, and other dairy offerings, ultimately leading to better milk prices for local farmers. To facilitate this, COMFED has been promoting its products on global platforms, including participation in Gulfood 2025 and 2026 in Dubai, and is currently exploring export opportunities in nations like Singapore and Malaysia.
New Initiatives in Fisheries and Dairy Development
In addition to dairy exports, Minister Mehta announced a novel fisheries initiative aimed at boosting the sector's visibility and accessibility. Fresh Catch Kiosks will be established, modeled after Sudha outlets, at key locations such as major intersections in Patna and other municipal corporation areas by the end of this month. These kiosks will be allocated on a priority basis to members of the fishermen community, supporting their livelihoods.
Mehta proudly stated that Bihar has achieved self-reliance in both milk and fish production. Fish production in the state saw a notable increase, rising from 8.73 lakh metric tonnes in 2023-24 to 9.59 lakh metric tonnes in 2024-25, reflecting a growth rate of 9.85%. Over the past decade, Bihar has advanced from the ninth to the fourth position in national fish production rankings, underscoring its progress in this domain.
On the dairy front, the minister outlined plans to form dairy cooperative societies in every village across Bihar. In the initial phase, these societies will be set up in 24,248 villages, with the goal of enhancing local milk collection and processing capabilities. Furthermore, Sudha sales outlets will be opened in all 8,053 panchayats of the state to ensure widespread distribution and accessibility.
Support Mechanisms and Healthcare Enhancements
Department Secretary Shirsat Kapil Ashok provided details on the allocation process for these new outlets. They will be distributed through a lottery system to women beneficiaries under the Mukhyamantri Mahila Rozgar Yojana, a scheme aimed at empowering women through employment opportunities. Applicants must have at least 80 square feet of space available, and male applicants who already own shops may also be considered by COMFED after a thorough assessment of business viability.
To further strengthen animal healthcare services, Minister Mehta added that mobile veterinary units are being made available in every block across Bihar. This initiative aims to provide timely medical assistance to livestock, thereby supporting the overall health of the dairy and animal resources sector.
These comprehensive efforts by the Bihar government signify a robust push towards economic growth and sustainability in the dairy and fisheries industries, with a clear focus on international expansion and local empowerment.
